KTM’s presence in MotoGP faced serious uncertainty in late 2024 following massive financial losses, escalating debt nearing €3 billion, and a steep decline in revenue. These financial pressures led to multiple factory shutdowns, widespread layoffs, and a creditor protection filing in November 2024, where management offered only a 30 percent repayment on outstanding loans. The team’s future looked bleak until Bajaj Auto unexpectedly stepped in, acquiring a controlling stake and providing a critical lifeline to the struggling company.
Bajaj Auto’s Role in Reviving KTM’s Racing Prospects
The intervention by Bajaj Auto has paused KTM’s downward trend and reassured employees and sponsors that KTM’s racing operations will continue. Bajaj explicitly committed to investing in the technology and talent needed to compete at the highest levels. This support covers all KTM’s race activities, including MotoGP, the Dakar Rally, and motocross championships, calming fears about the continuation of KTM’s presence across these series.
Pedro Acosta’s Future Hinges on New Bike Developments
KTM’s MotoGP journey has been marked by fluctuating fortunes, with riders like Pedro Acosta and Maverick Viñales showing flashes of brilliance but struggling to secure consistent top results. Acosta, in particular, is dependent on significant bike improvements to remain with KTM in the coming seasons. Without these upgrades, speculation in the paddock suggests he might transfer to Valentino Rossi’s team, where he would ride a Ducati, further stirring uncertainty about KTM’s rider line-up.
Outlook for KTM’s Upcoming Season
Despite financial strain and on-track challenges, KTM’s MotoGP campaign reflects the resilience common in racing culture. With Bajaj Auto now firmly in control from the boardroom, the team approaches the next season with renewed optimism and determination to compete for podium finishes. This change in leadership promises a more stable environment that could help KTM realize its long-term ambitions in MotoGP and related motorsports disciplines.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is MotoGP not so popular?
A. The unfortunate truth is that entertainment often attracts more attention than sports, so MotoGP is aiming to profit from this trend. However, MotoGP currently lacks the personalities needed to make it exciting and full of drama.
Q. Has anyone won F1 and MotoGP?
A. John Surtees is well-known for being the only World Champion in both motorcycle racing and Formula 1. He handled both with the same talent and courage.
Q. Did F1 buy MotoGP?
A. Now that Formula 1 and MotoGP are both managed by the same company, Liberty holds control over these top racing series worldwide. This decision affects governance, competition, and business approaches. Although the EU has given its approval, concerns persist about whether this could lead to a de facto monopoly.
Q. Who earns more, MotoGP or F1?
A. Formula 1 generates much more money compared to MotoGP. This isn’t related to the skills of the drivers or the risks involved.
